Summer Car Care: Essential Maintenance Tips Ahead of the Summer Holidays

Rising temperatures, unpredictable showers, and increased travel can make summer challenging for drivers in the UK. Ensuring your car is well-prepared for these conditions should be at the top of your summer preparation list.

The motor insurance experts from InsureDaily.co.uk have put together some of their top car maintenance tips that UK drivers should consider before their summer travels.

Contrary to what many drivers assume, regular maintenance checks performed all year round may not be enough for the warmer months, as the unique circumstances of the summer season require additional checks and fixes.

Paul Daly, Director of InsureDaily.co.uk, says:  “Ensuring your car is summer-ready is essential to prevent potential breakdowns and ensure a safer journey, whatever your destination.

“Besides the suggested checks, carrying an emergency summer kit in your car is wise. This kit could include a UV sunshade, extra coolant, a vehicle fire extinguisher, and plenty of bottled water.

“As the peak season fast approaches, let’s prioritise our vehicles’ safety and reliability by conducting these essential car checks. Stay vigilant, be prepared, and drive safely. May your summer journeys be enjoyable and free from car troubles”.

As the temperature starts to heat up, here are six essential car maintenance tips ahead of the summer holidays:

1. Check Your Battery

Hot weather can be just as taxing on your car’s battery as cold weather, potentially causing it to fail. Ensure your battery is in optimal condition and fully charged. Look for signs of swelling or leakage and consider a professional check if it’s over three years old.

2. Inspect Your Tyres

Tyres are critical for maintaining vehicle control, particularly on hot or wet roads. Regularly inspect your tyres’ tread depth, pressure, and overall condition. Also, rising temperatures can increase tyre pressure, so adjustments may be necessary.

3. Top Up Your Coolant

Antifreeze, or coolant, is not only for winter months; it also helps prevent your engine from overheating during warmer weather. Check coolant levels and top up if necessary, following the manufacturer’s instructions for the correct mixture.

4. Check Your Air Conditioning

A functional air conditioning system is crucial for comfortable driving in warmer weather. Check that the system is blowing cold air efficiently. If not, it might need a recharge or a professional inspection to ensure optimal performance.

5. Windscreen Visibility

Ensure you maintain clear visibility throughout the summer by checking your windscreen for chips or cracks and swiftly repairing any damage. Don’t forget to inspect your wiper blades for wear and replace them if needed, as summer showers can often come on suddenly.

6. Check Fluid Levels

Aside from coolant, ensure other fluid levels, such as brake fluid, engine oil, power steering fluid, and windscreen washer, are topped up. Long journeys and hot conditions can strain the vehicle, causing these fluids to drop more quickly.